Summary
On September 14, 1991, human remains were found at the bottom of a drained swamp near the intersection of Woods Road and Eaton Lane in Orange County, New York. The discovery was made when the property owner drained the area, exposing fully clothed human remains. Several personal items were found with the body, including a wallet (with no identification), a set of keys, eyeglasses, and a wristwatch. Due to the advanced decomposition of the body, the exact cause of death could not be determined, but the case was investigated as a suspected homicide from the outset. It was believed the decedent may have died five to twenty years prior to discovery.
Over the following years, investigators worked to determine the man’s identity using conventional forensic methods. A DNA profile was eventually developed and searched through the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS), but no match was found. In 2011, the case was entered into NamUs as UP9844. Despite continued efforts, the individual remained unidentified.
In 2024, the New York State Police submitted skeletal remains from the case to Othram, a forensic laboratory specializing in human identification from degraded or limited samples. Othram’s scientists developed a suitable DNA extract and used Forensic-Grade Genome Sequencing® to build a comprehensive DNA profile. This profile was then returned to law enforcement, and the New York State Police used it to perform a forensic genetic genealogy search. That search led to new investigative leads that ultimately resulted in the identification of the decedent as Mikolai Celesz.
Mikolai Celesz had been missing for decades, and details surrounding his disappearance remain under investigation. His identification marks an important step forward in a cold case that had remained stalled for more than 30 years. The New York State Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding Mikolai Celesz’s death. Anyone with information about his disappearance or death is encouraged to contact the authorities.
The identification of Mikolai Celesz represents the 17th case in the State of New York where officials have publicly identified an individual using technology developed by Othram. Visit DNASolves to learn about other New York cases where your support can help bring long-awaited answers to families.
Dan Miller
Director of Customer Service
Dan guides law enforcement agencies across the United States and internationally through every step of the forensic process—from crime scene to courtroom. He ensures investigators have the support and resources they need to navigate advanced DNA testing and maximize the impact of forensic evidence in their cases.